Back in 2005, Mercedes-Benz had high expectations for its R-Class. The new segment-buster had three rows of seats large and comfortable enough for adults, all the niceties one would expect in a Mercedes-Benz, and a comfortable ride. It was dubbed a grand sports tourer, but its large size and proportions screamed minivan. Almost half a decade later, the stigma remains and the sales numbers prove it (see chart below). Not surprisingly, Mercedes-Benz has decided to throw in the towel for the R-Class, at least here in the United States.

During our first encounter with the R-Class, we couldn’t help but compare it to the Chrysler Pacifica: “After all, both represent a cross between a sport/utility vehicle, a minivan, and a station wagon, right? And both hold six people in three rows of two seats, right? And both are products of DaimlerChrysler, right?”At its introduction, two powertrains were available, both with a seven-speed automatic transmission. First was a 3.5-liter, V-6 rated at 268 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, while a 5.0-liter V-8 put out 302 hp and 339 lb-ft. Despite its all-wheel-drive system and a curb weight of more than 4700 pounds, we were impressed with how quickly it moved: “We didn't have an opportunity for instrumented testing, but Mercedes claims a 0-to-60-mph time of 7.8 seconds for the R350, 6.5 seconds for the R500, but the seat of our pants suggests the difference doesn't feel that significant. Top speed is limited to 130 mph. These times represent good acceleration.”

If the R-Class wasn’t unique enough, the bean counters allowed the maniacal folks at AMG to work their magic and create the 2007 R63 AMG, which was powered by the much-missed M156, hand-built V-8 engine rated at 503 hp. The R63 only lasted one model year, making it one of the rarest AMG models to roam grocery store parking lots. Not surprisingly, we were smitten:“It's about here that the lunacy of heading to the racetrack in a minivan/ute hits you. This thing is one big rolling enigma. Nail the gas or twirl the steering wheel, and your body's auditory and g-sensors report sport-sedan behavior--60 mph is said to arrive in 4.6 seconds, about two seconds quicker than in the cooking-grade V-8 R500. But your optical nerve is recording contradictory signals: an acre of dash, sequoia-trunk A-pillars, and way too many seats in the rearview mirror.”

Four years later, we got behind the wheel of a refreshed R350. The biggest change took place at the front fascia, which sported a bigger front grille, revised headlights, and LED daytime running lamps. The V-6 engine remains, though the V-8 has disappeared in favor of the 3.0-liter, V-6, Bluetec turbodiesel, rated at 210 hp and a healthy 400 lb-ft of torque:“The V-6 holds the edge over the diesel from 0-60 (8.0 seconds vs 8.6 seconds), but the diesel body slams the gas engine UFC-style in the mpg department at 18 city/24 highway vs 14 city/19 highway—and that's despite the diesel being some 200 pounds heavier.”Mercedes was even more optimistic about its people-mover following the refresh: "The R-Class has had its share of ups and downs since its U.S. introduction in 2005, and its overall mission and exterior design have been questioned during its run, but company officials insist they're happy with the vehicle's place in the market (Benz has moved 1223 units so far in 2010 through May)." Two years later, we’re here to say farewell to the R-Class, while giving Mercedes-Benz an “A” for effort.

The R-class was originally only destined for the US market but two years ago Mercedes began selling in South Africa and the SA motoring press took one look (even if it was painfully hard) at it and slated it off. It's pointless. If you want something big, get a E-class Estate, something with 4WD get a M-class. If you want 4WD and seven seats, get a GL or if you want 4WD, status and unbeatable off-road ability, get a G-class. Sorry Mercedes it is still ugly after the facelift

I know this design is versatile and all but.................Instead of calling it the R-class, it should be called the Hearse-Class. I'm sorry but that thing looks like a freaking Hearse since day one. Gives me the creeps. LMAO

I have always thought that the R class is a bit under appreciated. The newest ones are very handsome in my opinion. The R63 is an animal, shame they produced it in such low quantities. I honestly think that throwing in the towel on a United States R Class this early into a new generation is a poor decision. The previous R class did not sell well to buyers in my area. However, I have already seen three of the new generation in my small town with new-car-tags in only the last month. I really think it could be a decent seller for them if they wait a tad longer.